CODY L OWEN

Domestic assault is when someone commits assault (hitting, attacking, threatening, or attempting to injure) against a domestic abuse victim—which includes current or former spouses, people living together, dating partners, family members by blood or marriage, or children of people in these relationships. Punishment depends on whether it's a first or second offense and the method used, ranging from the same penalties as basic assault to enhanced felony charges for repeat offenses.

Penalty: Class E felony; 1-6 years; fine up to $3,000

The offense is intentionally pursuing, contacting, or communicating with another person in a way that alarms or annoys them (including through electronic means or social media), or intentionally threatening another person or a minor. This is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and/or a fine up to $2,500; it is enhanced to a Class E felony if the victim is a minor, if the defendant has prior harassment convictions, or if the harassment involves threats of violence.

Penalty: Class A misdemeanor; 11 months 29 days; fine up to $2,500

It is illegal to manufacture, deliver, sell, or possess methamphetamine with intent to manufacture, deliver, or sell it, or to knowingly possess or casually exchange any amount of methamphetamine. Simple possession or casual exchange of methamphetamine is punished less severely than possession with intent to sell. Penalties depend on whether the charge involves intent to distribute (more severe) or simple possession (less severe), with specific jail time and fines determined by related statutes TCA 39-17-417 and 39-17-418.

Penalty: Violation

It is illegal to knowingly bring weapons, ammunition, explosives, drugs, alcohol, or cell phones into a prison or jail, or to possess these items while in a correctional facility. This applies to any person bringing contraband into an institution or to anyone (including staff) possessing prohibited items inside. The base violation is a Class E felony (1-6 years, up to $3,000 fine), but charges can be enhanced to Class D or Class C felony depending on the specific item and circumstances.

Penalty: Class E felony; 1-6 years; fine up to $3,000

It is illegal to alter, destroy, hide, or create fake records, documents, or physical evidence when you know an investigation or court proceeding is happening, if you intend to affect the evidence or the outcome of the case. A conviction is a Class C felony punishable by 3-15 years in jail and up to $10,000 in fines.

Penalty: Class C felony; 3-15 years; fine up to $10,000